A POPULAR community beat bobby retired from the force on Friday after 16 years of dedicated service.

Pc Dave Wilkins, beat manager for Redditch's north east sector, told the Advertiser he had enjoyed working closely with people of Winyates, Matchborough and Church Hill.

"It has been a very rewarding and happy time for me on north east sector, working with an excellent, dedicated and professional team.

"That is the secret - it is real team work - and exceptionally well led by a much valued colleague and friend, Sgt Neil Billingham," he said.

Pc Wilkins, 54, joined the force in 1990 following a successful 16-year teaching career which included a post as head of year at Baverstock School in Maypole, Birmingham.

After five years pounding the Worcestershire beat, he moved into crime scene investigation followed by stints in fraud and child protection departments.

He was appointed to the role of beat manager in October 2002 - a role he relished because it meant working closely with the community.

As well as regular police surgery sessions, he made himself a regular visitor in the schools in the area, particularly Arrow Vale High School, where he contributed to its website and termly newsletter.

He even got to know the youngest members of the community, calling in at local nurseries and playgroups.

Children at Noah's Ark Nursery in Matchborough christened him "Comfortable Dave" because "constable" proved too difficult to pronounce.

"I have always believed passionately the investment of time with our children and young people is vital in order to make every effort to keep them from becoming involved in anti-social behaviour and criminal activity.

"The old saying - 'Prevention is better than cure' is one close to his heart," said the married dad, who has one son.

However, it was with the elderly residents - particularly the ladies - that he proved the biggest hit.

"I am convinced it was the handcuffs and uniform that attracted them most," he laughed.

As well as working with residents and schools, he has also established strong links with officers and councillors at Redditch Council.

"Nothing is achieved without the support and encouragement of others, and my family, friends and colleagues have all contributed in one way or another towards helping me do the best I could," he added.

Even though he is stepping down from the force he will still be involved with the Redditch fun run, which he is organising for the third time this May.

He will be replaced by Pc Paul Kennedy for Winyates and Winyates Green and Pc Adrian Smith for Church Hill.

A new beat bobby for Matchborough is to be appointed at a later date.

Redditch Councillor Juliet Brunner, who represents Matchborough, said: "I am really saddened Pc Wilkins is leaving. He has been the face of community policing - the true bobby on the beat.

"It was no surprise to me that three people will be replacing him, this shows he will be a hard act to follow!"